Loikaw

Loikaw is the capital of Kayah State, located in the Karenni Hills of eastern Myanmar. It is the gateway to the Kayan (Padaung) communities famous for the brass neck coils worn by the women — a tradition that has made them one of Myanmar's best-known ethnic groups. The town itself is a quiet provincial capital surrounded by limestone hills, caves, and scenic lakes. The area has a distinct Karenni character and receives a modest number of tourists drawn to the cultural villages.

The climate is tropical monsoon with cooler temperatures than the lowlands due to the elevation (~900 m). The best time to visit is November to February.

By Plane

Loikaw Airport (LIW IATA) has flights from Yangon and Mandalay with Myanmar National Airlines.

By Car / Road

Loikaw is 210 km northeast of Taungoo (6 hr by minivan) and 170 km southeast of Inle Lake/Taunggyi (4 hr). Buses and minivans run from Taungoo, Inle Lake, and Mandalay.

Motorcycle taxis are the main local transport (1,000–2,000 kyat). Tuk-tuks are also available. The town centre is walkable.

• Kayan (Padaung) Villages: The main attraction — several villages around Loikaw where Kayan women wear brass neck coils. These are now tourist-focused but remain culturally significant. Entry 5,000–10,000 kyat depending on the village.

• Taung Kwe Pagoda: A hilltop pagoda with panoramic views of Loikaw and the surrounding hills.

• Loikaw Lake: A small lake in the centre of town, popular for evening walks.

• Kayah State Cultural Museum: Exhibits on Karenni history, culture, and traditional dress. Entry 2,000 kyat.

• Htee Paing Cave: A large limestone cave with Buddha images, about 10 km from Loikaw.

• Lawpita Falls: A scenic waterfall near the Lawpita Hydropower Plant, about 30 km from Loikaw.

• Kayan Village Tour: Visit the brass-neck-ring villages and learn about Kayan culture and the pressures of modern tourism.

• Cave Exploration: Visit Htee Paing Cave and other limestone caves in the area.

• Trekking: The hills around Loikaw offer trekking through Karenni and Kayan villages.

• Lawpita Falls Day Trip: A popular local picnic spot.

Small restaurants serve Kayah (Karenni) cuisine — rice, bamboo shoots, and spicy pork or chicken dishes. Shan and Burmese food is also available. Meals cost 1,500–4,000 kyat.

Tea shops serve Myanmar milk tea. Bottled water is essential.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses near the market for US$8–15.
• Mid-range: Hotels with AC for US$20–40, including Hotel Loikaw and Royal Loikaw Hotel.

Kayan textiles (woven scarves, bags, and longyi) are the main souvenir. Brass neck coils are also sold, but be aware they are mass-produced for tourists. The Loikaw Market sells local produce and crafts. Bargaining is expected.

• Inle Lake (170 km northwest, 4 hr) — Myanmar's most famous lake with floating gardens and leg-rowing fishermen.
• Taungoo (210 km southwest, 6 hr) — Gateway to the Thandaung Gyi hill station.
• Hpasawng (by road south) — Remote area with Kayan villages and natural scenery.
• Bawlakhe (by road east) — Karenni district with traditional villages.